Seven people have been infected with a strain of E. coli after visiting an
area of parkland, public health officials have confirmed.

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) said it was working with Birmingham City Council to investigate the outbreak at Sutton Park in Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands.

Of the seven patients identified as being infected with E. coli O157 in recent weeks, five were children under eight and at least one is known to have been hospitalised.

Advising parents that E. coli O157 can cause serious illness in young children, the HPA said the strain of the bacteria was often associated with contact with rural environments that may have been contaminated by animal faeces.

Dr Roger Gajraj, a consultant with the HPA's West Midlands East Health Protection Unit, said: "E. coli O157 can be very serious in young children and can in some instances cause kidney failure.

"The council is increasing hand-washing facilities at the park and the city council and HPA are issuing leaflets and displaying posters to warn visitors of the risks and advise on preventative measures.